What is the AES passport?
The AES passport represents a newly introduced biométric travel document by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). It is designed to gradually replace the Community of West African States (CEDEAO) passport, which has been in use across Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. This transition is part of a broader strategy to strengthen regional sovereignty and enhance mobility security for citizens of these countries.
Current status of the AES passport in the Sahel
Niger: still using the CEDEAO passport
In Niger, the production and distribution of the AES passport have not yet been fully implemented. Despite the official launch of the AES travel document in 2025, Nigeriens continue to receive and use the CEDEAO passport. This delay has sparked discussions on social media platforms, with many questioning the absence of the AES passport in the country.
In March 2026, General Abdourahamane Tiani, the head of state in Niger, underwent the enrôlement process for the AES biometric identity card. This step marks the official commencement of AES identity document production, which has been entrusted to the Libyan company Alitisal Aljadeed. However, the distribution of the AES passport in Niger remains pending.
Burkina Faso and Mali: AES passports already in circulation
Across Burkina Faso and Mali, the AES passport is already being issued to applicants. In Burkina Faso, both the AES passport and biometric national identity card are available. In Mali, despite initial challenges with international recognition of the AES passport, the new travel document is now accepted. This acceptance is evident among Malians living abroad, who have successfully obtained the AES passport through Malian consulates.
Why the delay in Niger?
The slow rollout of the AES passport in Niger can be attributed to several factors. First, the production of the AES travel document is still in progress. Second, the transition from the CEDEAO passport to the AES passport requires time and coordination among relevant authorities. Meanwhile, holders of the CEDEAO passport can continue to use it until its expiration.
Key features of the AES passport
A high-security biometric document
The AES passport is presented as a next-generation biometric travel document. It complies with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The passport includes an electronic chip and a polycarbonate page to combat forgery and enhance travel security.
A symbol of regained sovereignty
For the governments of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, the AES passport symbolizes regained national sovereignty. It represents a definitive break from the CEDEAO regional bloc. The introduction of the AES passport and biometric national identity card is part of a broader initiative to replace old identity documents with new ones.
Transition period: old passports still valid
During this transition period, individuals who possess the CEDEAO passport can continue to use it. This validity extends until the expiration of the passport. However, when applying for a passport renewal, the applicant will receive the AES passport, replacing the old CEDEAO passport.
Challenges and solutions for the AES passport
Recognition of the AES passport abroad
In the early stages of implementation, some Malians living abroad reported challenges with international recognition of the AES passport. However, these issues have been addressed, and the AES passport is now accepted for travel.
Production and distribution of the AES passport
The production of the AES passport has been entrusted to a Libyan company. The distribution of the new travel document is gradually being implemented across the three countries. In Niger, the rollout is slower, but the transition from the CEDEAO passport to the AES passport is underway.
Future of the AES passport in West Africa
As the production and distribution of the AES passport continue to progress in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, the transition from the CEDEAO passport to the AES passport will become more evident. The AES passport represents a significant step toward regional integration and enhanced travel security for citizens of these countries.
Conclusion: a work in progress
The introduction of the AES passport across the Sahel region is a work in progress. While Burkina Faso and Mali have made significant strides in implementing the new travel document, Niger continues to use the CEDEAO passport. However, the transition to the AES passport is underway, and the future of regional travel security looks promising.
